Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) (PRF)

Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) is a second-generation autologous platelet concentrate that serves as a biologic matrix for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine [1, 3]. It is prepared from a patient's own blood through a simplified centrifugation process without the use of anticoagulants or bovine thrombin, allowing for the natural polymerization of a dense, three-dimensional fibrin scaffold [2, 5]. This matrix entraps platelets, leukocytes, and a variety of growth factors—such as platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)—which are released gradually over several days to promote healing [4, 11]. The primary biological function of PRF is to facilitate wound healing and tissue regeneration by stimulating cell migration, proliferation, and angiogenesis [8, 12]. It is widely utilized in oral and maxillofacial surgery, orthopedics, and dermatology to enhance bone grafting, treat periodontal defects, and accelerate the repair of chronic wounds and musculoskeletal injuries [5, 11]. While not a traditional drug target, PRF interacts with endogenous cellular receptors and can be used in combination with bone graft materials to improve clinical outcomes [6, 10]. As an autologous product, PRF offers high biocompatibility and a low risk of immunogenic reactions or disease transmission [3, 9].

Other names

Concentrated platelet-rich fibrinC-PRFLeukocyte- and platelet-rich fibrinL-PRFAdvanced platelet-rich fibrinA-PRFInjectable platelet-rich fibrini-PRFChoukroun's PRF

Platelet-rich fibrin acts as a three-dimensional fibrin scaffold that entraps platelets and leukocytes, providing a sustained release of growth factors such as PDGF, TGF-beta, and VEGF to stimulate cell migration, proliferation, and angiogenesis at the site of injury [1, 3, 11].